Bryggjuhúsið restaurant – A Fresh Take on an Old Favorite in Reykjavík
When traveling in Reykjavík, I love discovering places that manage to be both new and familiar at the same time – and that’s exactly how Bryggjuhúsið feels.
The restaurant was recently opened by Ýmir Björgvin and Hrefna Ósk in the historic house on Vesturgata 2 – the very same building where Kaffi Reykjavík once stood. Long before that, the house was actually called Bryggjuhúsið (“The Pier House”), so in a way, the name has come home again.
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The couple spent the better part of last year restoring the house to its original charm, hunting for unique furniture and décor as far away as Slovakia and Africa. The result? A light, warm and welcoming space filled with character, beautiful colors, and artwork from young Icelandic artists out of the collection of Skúli Gunnlaugsson. It feels fresh, cozy, and just a little bit magical the moment you walk in.
One of the things I love most is how many different rooms the house holds – each with its own look and atmosphere. That means several groups can enjoy their own gatherings at the same time. There’s even a wine hall where you can go on a proper Icelandic tasting journey, and a stylish basement space with dramatic lighting that sets the mood perfectly.
Food-wise, Bryggjuhúsið has something for every craving. From Icelandic classics like hearty Sunday roasts and retro-style sandwich cakes, to wood-fired pizzas and elegant gourmet dishes, the menu is surprisingly diverse – and the prices are very reasonable by Reykjavík standards.
There’s also something unusual (and wonderful) about being able to chat with almost all the staff in Icelandic. For me, it gave the whole place the feeling of stepping into someone’s home, which is not always easy to find when dining out here.
On my visit, chef Ómar Stefánsson really pulled out all the stops. We started with seared scallops served with a silky feta cream, toasted almonds, “compressed” watermelon, green apple, herbs, and a champagne vinaigrette – a combination that was both playful and refined.
Then came a nostalgic treat: cod neck, salted overnight, served with soft buttered onions, crispy potatoes, hollandaise sauce, and fresh chives. Pure comfort on a plate. And if you’re in the mood for the ultimate Icelandic Sunday dinner, don’t miss the roast leg of lamb with red cabbage, green peas, caramelized potatoes, and rhubarb jam. Just like grandma used to make – and at 4,400 ISK, it’s one of the best deals in town.
For travelers looking for a mix of history, Icelandic hospitality, and delicious food, Bryggjuhúsið is a gem. It feels at once like a new chapter and a homecoming, right in the heart of Reykjavík’s old harbor district.
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Bryggjuhúsið restaurant: More than just a meal – Bryggjuhúsið is a dining experience. Historic setting, local art on the walls, and a wine hall for tastings.